Work Abroad and International Career Advisor

International Education Careers

What They Are, How to Prepare, and What to Expect

By Bob Sanborn

Most students have a terrific experience in an overseas program and for that reason many want to work in the field of international education. Since positions in the field are difficult to obtain, I advise them to get a bit more information before pursuing the holy grail. First of all, what is involved in international education? As opposed to simply teaching abroad, international education involves all that contributes to students having a rewarding international experience--either abroad or in the U.S. International experiences range from hosting international students as they study in the U.S., joining international programs here, or--the most popular option--going abroad to study or work.

U.S.-Based Positions

Most international job seekers imagine that their career will take them around the world. In fact, most international positions are in the U.S., usually in New York or Washington. This does not diminish the excitement of the career, it simply means that a career in international education usually involves working in this country, not reexperiencing your time abroad as a student.

Overseas Positions

Most international education organizations do have some positions abroad, but these are generally filled by foreign nationals or long-term employees who have proven their usefulness to the organization in the main office in the U.S. and whose skills and experience are now needed abroad.

Because of the popularity of the field, the entry level pay is relatively low, the hours are likely to be long, and the pressures considerable. All of that said, there remain plenty of positive aspects to the work. First of all, you can count on working with interesting people with diverse cultural backgrounds who love what they're doing.

Graduate Programs

I have on previous occasions listed the best graduate schools for international careers. Two schools that I have not mentioned with programs in international education worth examining are the Harvard's Graduate School of Education's Program in International Education and the Columbia University Teachers College Department of International Education Development. Both programs offer relevant coursework and opportunities for valuable contacts in the field.

Whatever graduate school you choose, the most important part of your schooling will be the internship experience. So go where the internships are. This usually means large cities like New York or Washington. Do as many internships as possible. Those who work very hard and prove themselves are often asked to stay.

The International Education Career Track

Who is the perfect candidate for a position in international education? Those in the field have a wide range of backgrounds, but most often their undergraduate degree is in liberal arts with coursework in the history and culture of other countries. A study abroad experience, preferably for a year, is almost essential. Strong skills in at least one popular language such as Spanish, French, or an Asian language are important. A healthy amount of independent travel gives one a broad perspective that helps make one more marketable. Internships, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, are, as I've said, extremely important. Most important of all in a successful job search are contacts--those that you make in the course of the job search itself and those made through your alumni office. The best road to success is to prove yourself by working hard in your internship or volunteer job or making a significant contribution during your exchange or study abroad experience.

Finally, a word of caution: This is a popular field and you will be competing for jobs with people who are extremely well qualified. Some will have doctorates and many will be fluent in several languages and have years of experience abroad. Don't be dismayed, but know the realities.

Trends

While Europe for some time to come will continue to be the most popular destination for students to travel, study, and work abroad, a number of other areas are becoming more popular. The increasing interaction between the U.S. and Mexico and the growing probability that similar relationships will grow with other Latin American nations make it likely that this area will see strong growth in international education. Asia and the Pacific Rim nations are becoming more involved in international exchange. Work and internship programs are becoming increasingly popular.

DR. ROBERT SANBORN is the Associate Dean for Student Affairs at Rice University.